PRIMARY schools from across the county will be learning about Pembrokeshire’s abundant natural wildlife thanks to Valero's annual environmental project.

Schools including Pennar Community School, Broad Haven School, Golden Grove Community School and Ysgol Gymunedol Maenclochog are set to take part in the sessions in and around Valero’s Environmental and Community Centre at St. Mary’s Church in Pwllcrochan.

The Grade II listed building was converted into an environmental facility by Pembroke Refinery several years ago, and is fully stocked with equipment for the schools to use.

The day-long activities, which take place on the centre’s marshland boardwalks, include pond dipping, identifying aquatic species, and exploring the surrounding woodland. This year’s sessions will again be led by project co-ordinators Clare Jessop and Tansy Knight, assisted by dedicated volunteers from the Texaco Retirees Association.

Speaking after the first school visit of the year from Stepaside CP School, Clare said: “It is great that we have had such a great response from schools this year, who are either returning to Pwllcrochan from previous successful visits or who want to try out the Valero environmental project for the first time.

"With our dedicated resources and the facilities that have put in place here by Pembroke Refinery, we are able to offer schools across Pembrokeshire a truly amazing experience that fits into the wider curriculum.”

Valero public affairs manager Stephen Thornton said: “The environmental primary school project we run every year at Pwllcrochan demonstrates Valero’s commitment to the local environment and education for young people in our communities.

"With another bumper year in store we are looking forward to helping children from across the county learn more about the wildlife right here on our doorstep.”